Keloid

Dear Dr. Jen,

I just want to ask if we can remove keloid caused by ear piercing? My keloid is too big already and I want to remove it.

Bethel

Dear Bethel,

Keloids are easily diagnosed. These are raised scars that arise from injury.  Most of the time it is inheritable and enlarges progressively over time.  If the piercing is over the cartilaginous part (the hard part of the ear), then having a surgeon excise the cartilage bump might be a good solution.

However, if it is the skin over the cartilage that is enlarged, or the fleshy part of the bottom of the ear that is pierced, then cutting it will just produce more keloids.  Removing it with a scalpel will still be interpreted as injury by your body, and another keloid will take its place.

Your best bet is still to get monthly steroid injections on the keloid to shrink it and prevent further enlargement.  It you feel any gnawing pain on your scar, it might be a sign that it is growing. Best to have it done soon before it gets too hard and big.

Dear Dr. Jen,

Is it safe to remove freckles, acne spots, and facial hair via laser?  I'm afraid of the side effects but I heard it is the most effective mode of removal.

Jay

Dear Jay,

Laser is a safe procedure granting the following criteria are fulfilled:  First, the machine is FDA-approved for the procedure it will perform. There are many laser machines produced in the market and all claim to be as effective as the next one.  However, this is totally untrue.  Not all lasers are made of the same quality and not all of them are safe.

Second, there is a trained PDS derma or physician around who performs the procedure. It is crucial that the doctor assesses skin type and pain threshold of the patient, and manages expectations prior to the procedure. This determines the settings to be used. Not all same settings can be used on all patients. Adjustments have to be made since each individual's skin and needs are unique.

Lastly, there is not one laser machine that can perform zapping of acne scars, freckles and hair removal with maximum benefits.  Each need, such as freckle or pigment control, is performed by a specific Nd:Yag laser.  Hair removal is best removed by a Diode laser.  If the machine claims to do all of it and more, like a jack-of-all-trades type, chances are it isn't the best one out there.  Don't be afraid to ask your questions.  If you get hesitant answers, then trust your instinct (and run!).  Look for a genuine PDS derma to perform the procedure safely.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). For information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/. For questions or concerns, please text to: 0932 857 7070; or email to: [email protected]; or call The Freeman: (032) 2531276, or PSH: (032) 233 8620 and 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.